Menopause is a natural change that marks the end of your menstrual cycles due to the cessation of ovarian function. It is diagnosed after you have gone 12 months without a menstrual period. It usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age.
Early Menopause:
Menopause precedes a stage known as early or premature menopause, which begins between 40 and 50 years of age. Early menopause occurs because of producing less estrogen.
Causes:
Menopause is caused by a change in the balance of the body's sex hormones. It happens when your ovaries stop producing as much of the hormone estrogen and no longer release an egg each month. Sometimes it's caused by some treatments such as:
- Oophorectomy.
- Some breast cancer treatments.
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy.
- Some Down syndrome treatments.
- Some of Addison's disease treatments.
Symptoms:
- Irregular periods.
- Hot flashes or feeling of extreme heat.
- Night sweats.
- Vaginal dryness.
- Insomnia.
- Mood changes and anxiety.
- Reduced sex drive (libido).
- Problems with memory and concentration.
When to See a Doctor?
If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause before 45 years of age.
Health Problems after Menopause:
Estrogen helps prevent heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and osteoporosis. When the amount of estrogen in the body of the woman is reduced her risk of getting diseases increases.
Treatment:
- In rare cases, doctor may prescribe medications to treat menopausal symptoms, especially if these symptoms affect your daily life.
- Adopting a balanced diet and exercising regularly may improve some of the menopause symptoms.
- The doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
- Vaginal moisturizers in case of vaginal dryness.
- Behavioral cognitive therapy, which is a type of talking therapy that can improve low mood and feelings of anxiety.
For a Better Health after Menopause:
A healthy lifestyle helps women enjoy better menopausal health through:
- Balanced Diet:
- A balanced diet helps women to enjoy good health before, during, and after menopause. The diet must contain calcium and vitamin D for stronger bones.
- Exercise:
- Regular exercise such as regular walking improves and promotes public health, especially bone and joint health.
- Regular doctor visits and examination:
- Regular doctor visits help to detect health problems earlier. Visiting your doctor once a year is enough to do periodic tests such as dental and eye tests, bone density (DEXA), and others.